Translation guide
The English word 'tumor' refers to an abnormal growth of tissue. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 腫瘍 (しゅよう). There are also more specific medical terms, as well as everyday words for visible lumps or swellings.
To refer to a tumor in a medical or general context, including both benign and malignant growths.
The standard medical term for 'tumor'. It is neutral and can refer to both benign and malignant tumors. Used in formal and clinical settings.
The doctor said they found a tumor.
Benign tumors are usually not life-threatening.
A common, everyday word for a lump, bump, or growth on the body. It can refer to a tumor, cyst, boil, or pimple. Less clinical than 腫瘍.
I have a lump on my neck.
Refers to a swelling or boil, often with inflammation. Can be used for a tumor that is visibly swollen, but more commonly for abscesses or swollen glands.
I have a painful swelling.
To specifically refer to a malignant or cancerous tumor.
The precise medical term for a malignant tumor or cancer. Used in formal diagnoses.
The test results showed it was a malignant tumor.
The general word for 'cancer'. While not exactly synonymous with 'tumor', it is often used when the tumor is cancerous. In everyday conversation, people may say 癌 instead of 悪性腫瘍.
To refer to a non-cancerous tumor.
The standard medical term for a benign tumor.
This tumor is benign, so there's no need to worry.
To describe a lump or swelling that can be seen or felt, without necessarily implying a medical diagnosis.
A general word for a bump, lump, or swelling, often on the head or body. It can be used for a tumor-like growth, but is more commonly used for bumps from injuries.
I got a bump on my head.
Refers to a hard lump or knot, often under the skin. Commonly used for lumps found during self-examination (e.g., breast lumps).
腫瘍 (しゅよう) is the formal medical term for tumor. できもの is a casual, everyday word for any kind of skin growth or lump, including pimples and cysts. しこり specifically refers to a hard, internal lump that can be felt under the skin, often associated with tumors but also with muscle knots.
In casual conversation, using 腫瘍 might sound overly clinical. If you're talking about a lump you found, できもの or しこり might be more natural unless you are certain it is a tumor.
They found cancer.
I felt a lump in my breast.